Ohio Senator JD Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, launched a renewed assault on Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's military record. Vance accused Walz of avoiding deployment to Iraq by retiring from the Army National Guard and of falsely claiming combat service, drawing sharp criticism and spotlighting a new fault line in the heated vice-presidential race.
Vance, speaking at a campaign stop in Michigan, accused Walz of abandoning his unit before its deployment to Iraq in 2006. "When the United States Marine Corps asked me to go to Iraq to serve my country, I did it. When Tim Walz was asked to go to Iraq, he dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him," Vance said. Walz, who served in the Army National Guard for 24 years before retiring in 2005, has previously defended his decision to leave the military to focus on his congressional campaign.
Walz's military service has been a focal point in his political career, with his 24-year tenure in the National Guard being a significant part of his appeal to voters. The Harris campaign, which tapped Walz as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate, has touted his military background as a testament to his dedication and service. However, Vance's attacks aim to undermine this narrative, portraying Walz as a politician who shirked his duties.
The timing of Walz's retirement has been a particular point of contention. According to the Minnesota National Guard, Walz retired in May 2005, two months before his unit received alert orders to deploy to Iraq. Critics argue that his retirement was conveniently timed to avoid deployment, a claim Walz and his supporters vehemently deny. Walz has stated that his decision was influenced by the Hatch Act, which limits political activities for federal employees, and his commitment to his congressional campaign.
Vance's criticisms extended beyond Walz's retirement. He accused Walz of dishonesty, citing a campaign video where Walz referenced carrying "weapons of war" and his support for an assault weapons ban. Vance argued that Walz's statements were misleading, as he never served in a combat zone. "He has not spent a day in a combat zone," Vance said. "Do not pretend to be something that you're not."
The Harris campaign defended Walz, highlighting his extensive military service and his contributions to training and operations. "In his 24 years of service, the Governor carried, fired, and trained others to use weapons of war innumerable times," a campaign spokesperson said. The campaign emphasized Walz's commitment to public service, both in the military and as an elected official.
The debate over Walz's military record is reminiscent of past political battles, notably the 2004 campaign to discredit John Kerry's war record. Vance's use of the term "stolen valor" to describe Walz's actions echoes this tactic, although it is a contentious and often disputed accusation.
The scrutiny of Walz's military record is not new. During his gubernatorial campaigns, Walz faced similar attacks, particularly regarding his rank at retirement. While Walz reached the rank of command sergeant major, he officially retired as a master sergeant due to incomplete coursework at the US Army Sergeants Major Academy. This discrepancy has been used by opponents to question his military credentials.
Despite these attacks, Walz has maintained support among his constituents and fellow Democrats. Maryland Governor Wes Moore, who served in Afghanistan, defended Walz, highlighting the respect owed to those who serve in the military. "Anybody who is willing to raise their hand, to put on a uniform of this country-they deserve our utmost respect," Moore said.
